Why should you buy a portable power station?

Bring big backup power with you with these expert-recommended portable power stations, which can store enough power to charge electronics, appliances, and more.

What is a portable power station (PPS)?

The solution for instant, quiet, and robust energy lies in the modern portable power station (PPS). These devices are the ultimate answer to power freedom, freeing you from noisy generators and messy cable runs.

How to choose a portable power station?

These models need a compatible solar panel, the appropriate weather for efficient solar charging, and a suitable place to leave the portable power station where it will absorb solar energy. Power stations with multiple charging methods make an excellent resource for long camping trips because they help to ensure power in almost any situation.

How many devices can a portable power station run?

So long as your portable power station has the right ports and enough capacity, it can run a massive range of devices, including phones, laptops, and desktops. Higher capacity units will also let you power large home appliances and charge electric vehicles.

What is the best portable power station?

Editor’s Note: We updated our Portable Power Stations guide on June 6, 2025, to add the EcoFlow River 3 Plus, our new best budget choice; the Anker C300 DC, our choice for best backpack power station; the workhorse Bluetti Elite 200 V2; Bluetti’s pro-photographer-centric Handsfree 2 Backpack, and the extra-portable Bouge RV JuiceGo.

What is a portable power station?

These little ones are generally smaller than a lunchbox and good for tasks like recharging laptops and speakers, LED lighting, and small fans. On the high-capacity end, portable power stations top out at around 4,000 Wh plus are expandable with extra batteries.